BEFORE THE SHIP SANK
The ship underwent several name variations before being named Odense. Launched in 1890 from Helsingors Shipyard, it measured 260.0 feet in length, 36.0 feet in width, and 16.7 feet in depth, weighing 1756 gross tons and 1104 net tons. Originally commissioned by Norden D/S of Copenhagen as Nordvest, it operated under their ownership until 1913. Later purchased by Nord-Osterso A/S and renamed Frederica, it eventually became Odense under the final ownership of I/S Aarhus Oliefabrik (V Muller) Copenhagen. Despite facing German U-boats in the North Sea during World War One, Odense continued its operations with determination.
AFTER THE SHIP SANK
On May 5th, 1917, the SS Odense was attacked by the German U-boat UC-77 off St Abbs Head. The U-boat’s initial torpedo attack failed, but after surfacing, it fired warning shots at the Odense. The crew abandoned the ship, and two members were killed. The Odense was left sinking, but a British aircraft’s arrival forced the U-boat to retreat. The Odense ran aground in Broadhaven Bay. Despite months of salvage and repair, a violent storm on 2nd October caused severe damage, resulting in its total loss. Today, the wreckage, now rests at 55° 54.931’N, 002° 09.343’W, scattered in depths of 5 – 12 meters. Large boilers serve as the biggest features of the sunken ship.
EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON SHIPWRECK
Climate change exerts diverse impacts on shipwrecks. As increased temperatures induced by climate change boosts marine plant growth, the SS Odense shipwreck experiences more seaweed and marine vegetation attachment. As a result, biofouling occurs more frequently and organisms such as barnacles and algae affects the hulls and protective coatings of shipwrecks. Additionally, climate change-induced higher seawater temperatures and increased acidity accelerate the corrosion and decay of shipwrecks, which render shipwrecks more vulnerable to wave impacts, significantly heightening the risk of damage and loss.
